Top Skilled Trades Schools in Oregon: Your Pathway to a Hands-On, High-Demand Career
Why Choose a Skilled Trade?
Skilled trades offer some of the most rewarding, stable, and high-paying career paths in today’s job market. From electricians and welders to HVAC technicians and construction managers, skilled trades professionals are the backbone of industries that keep our world running. Unlike traditional four-year college degrees, trade schools provide focused, hands-on training that prepares students for the workforce in as little as six months to two years.
Oregon is home to many outstanding skilled trade schools, offering programs that lead to certifications, associate degrees, and apprenticeships in high-demand industries. With growing opportunities and competitive salaries, now is the perfect time to explore a career in skilled trades.
This guide highlights some of the best skilled trades schools in Oregon, each offering exceptional training, state-of-the-art facilities, and strong job placement support.
Top Skilled Trades Schools in Oregon
The Best Skilled Trades Schools in Oregon
Oregon Institute of Technology (Oregon Tech) – Trade & Industrial Programs
Location: Klamath Falls, OR
Oregon Tech is one of the state’s top institutions for hands-on technical education. It offers multiple skilled trade programs that blend classroom instruction with practical application.
Highlights:
- Offers programs in mechanical, electrical, and construction technologies.
- Strong emphasis on hands-on learning with modern lab facilities.
- Partnerships with industry leaders for apprenticeships and job placements.
- Excellent graduate employment rates.
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Scholarships & Financial Aid
Portland Community College (PCC) – Trades & Apprenticeship Programs
Location: Portland, OR
Portland Community College offers one of the most comprehensive skilled trades training programs in Oregon, preparing students for careers in construction, electrical work, and more.
Highlights:
- Programs include welding, HVAC, electrical trades, and automotive technology.
- Strong partnerships with local unions for apprenticeship opportunities.
- Advanced training facilities with real-world simulations.
- Flexible scheduling for working students.
Visit PCC Trades & Apprenticeship Programs
Scholarships & Financial Aid
Clackamas Community College – Industrial Technology Programs
Location: Oregon City, OR
Clackamas Community College provides robust skilled trades training through its Industrial Technology department, preparing students for careers in manufacturing, welding, and more.
Highlights:
- Programs in welding, automotive repair, and manufacturing technology.
- Small class sizes for personalized instruction.
- Hands-on training with industry-standard equipment.
- Strong employer connections for job placement.
Visit Clackamas Community College
Scholarships & Financial Aid
Linn-Benton Community College – Technical Trades Training
Location: Albany, OR
Linn-Benton Community College offers high-quality training in trades such as heavy equipment operation, construction, and automotive technology.
Highlights:
- Career-oriented programs in construction, electrical, and heavy equipment technology.
- Apprenticeship programs available for hands-on learning.
- Career counseling and job placement services.
- Affordable tuition and financial aid options.
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Scholarships & Financial Aid
Rogue Community College – Trades & Industrial Programs
Location: Grants Pass, OR
Rogue Community College provides excellent training programs in welding, automotive technology, and construction trades.
Highlights:
- Industry-relevant training for high-demand jobs.
- Modern workshops and hands-on learning environments.
- Opportunities for certifications and industry-recognized credentials.
- Strong connections with local employers for job placements.
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Scholarships & Financial Aid
Lane Community College – Skilled Trades & Apprenticeship Programs
Location: Eugene, OR
Lane Community College offers top-notch skilled trades programs, including HVAC, plumbing, and electrical apprenticeships.
Highlights:
- Apprenticeship programs in electrical, plumbing, and HVAC.
- State-of-the-art training facilities with hands-on experience.
- Excellent employer partnerships for job placements.
- Career-focused training leading to high-paying jobs.
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Scholarships & Financial Aid
Mt. Hood Community College – Applied Technology Programs
Location: Gresham, OR
Mt. Hood Community College offers strong trade programs in welding, automotive, and industrial maintenance.
Highlights:
- Programs in welding, machine tool technology, and industrial maintenance.
- Experienced faculty with real-world industry expertise.
- Hands-on training in modern labs and workshops.
- Strong industry partnerships for internships and job placement.
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Scholarships & Financial Aid
Southwestern Oregon Community College – Industrial & Trade Programs
Location: Coos Bay, OR
Southwestern Oregon Community College provides career-focused training in various skilled trades, helping students gain industry certifications.
Highlights:
- Offers programs in automotive repair, welding, and construction trades.
- Small class sizes for personalized instruction.
- Industry connections that lead to strong job placement rates.
- Hands-on training facilities with modern tools and equipment.
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Scholarships & Financial Aid
Umpqua Community College – Career & Technical Education
Location: Roseburg, OR
Umpqua Community College provides practical and workforce-ready skilled trade programs in construction, welding, and automotive technology.
Highlights:
- Programs designed for quick workforce entry.
- State-of-the-art technical training facilities.
- Hands-on learning approach with real-world projects.
- Strong job placement services for graduates.
Visit Umpqua Community College
Scholarships & Financial Aid
A Bright Future in Skilled Trades
Skilled trades offer a direct path to stable, high-paying jobs without the burden of long academic programs and student debt. Oregon’s skilled trade schools provide excellent training, hands-on experience, and strong industry connections to help students launch successful careers.
Whether you’re interested in construction, welding, automotive technology, HVAC, or electrical work, Oregon’s trade schools offer specialized programs designed to get you job-ready quickly. With increasing demand for skilled professionals and countless career advancement opportunities, now is the perfect time to explore a future in the trades.
Take the next step—research schools, apply for financial aid, and begin your journey toward a rewarding career in a hands-on, high-demand field. Oregon’s top skilled trade schools are ready to equip you with the skills and certifications needed to thrive in the workforce.
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